2 Major Myths Holding Back Home Buyers

2 Major Myths Holding Back Home Buyers | Simplifying The Market

Urban Institute recently released a report entitled, “Barriers to Accessing Homeownership,” which revealed that eighty percent of consumers either are unaware of how much lenders require for a down payment or believe all lenders require a down payment above 5 percent.”

Myth #1: “I Need a 20% Down Payment”

Buyers often overestimate the down payment funds needed to qualify for a home loan. According to the same report:

Consumers are often unaware of the option to take out low-down-payment mortgages. Only 19% of consumers believe lenders would make loans with a down payment of 5% or less… While 15% believe lenders require a 20% down payment, and 30% believe lenders expect a 20% down payment.”

These numbers do not differ much between non-owners and homeowners; 39% of non-owners believe they need more than 20% for a down payment and 30% of homeowners believe they need more than 20% for a down payment.

While many believe that they need at least 20% down to buy their dream home, they do not realize that programs are available that allow them to put down as little as 3%. Many renters may actually be able to enter the housing market sooner than they ever imagined with programs that have emerged allowing less cash out of pocket.

Myth #2: “I Need a 780 FICO® Score or Higher to Buy”

Similar to the down payment, many either don’t know or are misinformed about what FICO® score is necessary to qualify.

Many Americans believe a ‘good’ credit score is 780 or higher.

To help debunk this myth, let’s take a look at Ellie Mae’s latest Origination Insight Report, which focuses on recently closed (approved) loans.

2 Major Myths Holding Back Home Buyers | Simplifying The Market

As you can see in the chart above, 53.5% of approved mortgages had a credit score of 600-749.

Bottom Line

Whether buying your first home or moving up to your dream home, knowing your options will make the mortgage process easier. Your dream home may already be within your reach.

What’s Your Home Worth?

Search for Your New Home

27832 N Silverado Ranch Road Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,290,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,532 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752926
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the tranquility of mountain vistas and the Sonoran Desert with this stunning home! This highly sought-after Whistler plan by Taylor Morrison is nestled in the esteemed Northlands community of North Peoria. Revel in nearby hiking and ATV trails, nearby Lake Pleasant, and breathtaking sunsets. Located in the prestigious Summit Section, this home backs onto the magnificent Calderwood Butte, offering sweeping panoramic views. With exceptional curb appeal, this home is bathed in natural light. The gourmet kitchen boasts upgraded quartzite waterfall countertops, white pinstriped cabinets, and stainless steel appliances, flowing seamlessly into a coffee/wine sitting area looking out to the amazing view. *BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE* The kitchen is open to the spacious family room with a large built-in entertainment center. The generous primary bedroom features a custom closet with ample storage. With three additional bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, there's plenty of space for family and guests. Unwind under the extra-wide pergola, savor the views, enjoy a cocktail, and listen to the soothing sounds of your pool's waterfalls. Whether you love hiking, spending a day at the lake, or simply enjoying the tranquility of your surroundings, this remarkable home offers it all. Don't miss out - come see it today!!

9344 E Via De Vaquero Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,290,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,769 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6727480
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located in the highly sought-after DC Ranch community, this move-in ready Terraces West home offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, with the master bedroom conveniently on the ground floor. The open floor plan, complete with separate living, dining, and family rooms, is perfect for entertaining. Situated on a north/south cul-de-sac lot with no homes across the street, this home provides stunning views of the McDowell Mountains. If you're looking for a DC Ranch property in The Terraces, this is the perfect opportunity to make it yours!

9255 W Buckskin Trail Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,290,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,089 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6708890
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your custom retreat on 1.2 acres in Peoria, ideally located near Lake Pleasant and featuring an impressive 1900 SF RV/Boat Garage. This home offers 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, providing ample room for your multi-generations. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with high-end appliances and finishes, and flows seamlessly into a great room with a breakfast bar, cozy breakfast nook, and formal dining area. Entertain effortlessly in the indoor/outdoor living spaces, which include a putting green, basketball hoop, covered patio, BBQ area, spa, and a sparkling pool that invites relaxation and enjoyment. The spacious layout also features a large workout room with an adjoining steam room, perfect for maintaining your fitness routine. For those who need extra storage or workspace, the property includes a 1900 SF detached RV garage with a large garage doors, one for your RV and the other to store your beautiful boat to take to Lake Pleasant. This garage has ample storage, a workshop, and can accommodate up to 4 additional cars, making it ideal for car collectors or hobbyists. Don't miss the opportunity to own this exceptional property that combines luxury, functionality, and ample space for all your needs.

2521 W Pumpkin Ridge Drive Anthem, AZ 85086

$1,289,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,290 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780784
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in the prestigious Anthem Country Club! This stunning 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom Sonoma model sits on an elevated lot, offering sweeping views of the 17th hole of the Persimmon Golf Course, lush desert, majestic mountains, and twinkling evening lights. The spacious 3,290 sq ft layout includes a versatile den and a 3-car garage, all set on a serene 0.254-acre lot. Inside, a gourmet kitchen awaits with gleaming granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and rich dark wood cabinetry. The open-concept layout flows seamlessly into the cozy family room and dining spaces, perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying the view. The owner's suite is a true retreat, featuring a luxurious tile walk-in shower and ample space for relaxation. Step...CONTINUE READING... ...outside to the backyard oasis where you'll find an expansive patio with an outdoor BBQ/bar area under a pergolaideal for al fresco dining. Unwind in the negative edge spool, heating up to 104°, with a tranquil cascading water feature. Whether you're soaking in the vibrant sunsets or hosting friends, this low-maintenance, meticulously landscaped yard offers the best of Arizona outdoor living. Experience resort-style elegance every day in this breathtaking Anthem Country Club home!

16779 W Holly Street Goodyear, AZ 85395

$1,287,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,134 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773405
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful Cristall 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers 3,134 sq ft of luxurious living space with golf course view. The home features a stacked stone exterior, a beautiful custom front door and front courtyard. The resort-style backyard is perfect for entertaining with an extended covered patio, lighted pergola, lounging areas with Tiki torches, a built-in BBQ island, 2 firepits, a water feature, and above-ground spa—all overlooking the 14th hole of Tuscany West. The gourmet kitchen is ideal for hosting, featuring a large island, upgraded cabinets, granite countertops, GE Monogram stainless steel appliances, a butler's pantry, and walk-in pantry. The spacious great room offers a stone fireplace and custom media center, with views from the great room, dining area, and main and bedroom. Off the kitchen is a cozy morning room that provides a perfect spot to relax. The primary bedroom offers a serene retreat with an ensuite bathroom featuring dual vanities, a soaking tub, walk-in shower, and large walk-in closet. A second bedroom includes a private bath, while the third bedroom near the front could double as a den or office. Additional features include a 3-car garage, owner-owned 34 solar panels, and a spacious laundry room. Located in the PebbleCreek active adult community, enjoy golf, swimming pools, pickleball, tennis, fitness center, and more.

22633 N Clubhouse Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,286,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,582 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6627247
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This significant golf property located in the highly desirable Pinnacle Peak Country Club in North Scottsdale overlooks the 11th fairway with a spectacular view of Pinnacle Peak. The property is ideal for those looking for an easy-care full-time residence or a lock-and-leave vacation home. All on one level this open flowing floor plan has been updated with new paint, new tile and low-pile carpet floors, kitchen and bath remodels and much more. Using today's modern finishes, this discerning home imparts the move-in-ready aspect. The home is entered from a stone pavered walk-way with room for front patio seating. Through the double door steel framed glass doors, the great room impresses with a vaulted beamed ceiling, iron chandelier, floor to ceiling tiled fireplace, wet bar, and glass sliders that lead to the patio. To the south the chef's kitchen is fully equipped with new granite countertops and appliances, a spacious island with a waterfall side, pendant lights and bar seating. The adjacent casual dining area extends convenience and outdoor access. The serene primary suite, in the North side of the home, features a double door entry, sitting space and patio access. Enjoy the ensuite bath with new double sink vanity, walk-in shower with floor to ceiling tile surround and a walk-in closet. For guests the sizeable second bedroom ensuite opens to the guest bath with tub and shower combination, also opening to the hall. The den or office, off the great room, has a double barn door entry and can easily be used as a third bedroom. The outdoor patio is delightful with views of the golf course and the actual Pinnacle Peak. The vaulted with beams covered patio space mimics the design of the great room inside. An outdoor fireplace, dining ramada, and beautiful mature desert landscape, including citrus trees creates the sought after outdoor Arizona casual lifestyle. Overall, this updated golf property is an excellent opportunity to own a prime location in North Scottsdale's Pinnacle Peak Country Club.

6310 E Ludlow Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,286,000 - 4Br/2Ba -  for Sale in La Paz At Desert Springs Unit 1, Scottsdale
Open House
$1,286,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,448 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786546
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located minutes from Kierland Commons, Scottsdale Quarter, and top-rated schools, with no HOA, this home offers convenience and peace of mind. From the moment you enter through the striking custom pivot door, you'll sense the refinement that awaits inside. The open-concept floor plan blends comfort and style, creating an inviting and intimate atmosphere, bathed in natural light that highlights the vaulted ceilings and exposed beams. The heart of the home is the grand kitchen, boasting brand-new cabinetry, stunning quartz countertops, a sprawling 10-foot island, and top-tier stainless-steel appliances. Throughout the home, timeless oak plank flooring and premium finishes—including Delta eco-friendly fixtures, Bedrosians tile, designer light fixtures, and soft cashmere paint finishes The primary suite offers a serene retreat with dual vanities and his-and-hers showers for a spa-like experience. Set on a desirable corner lot, the property offers beautiful curb appeal, generous parking for vehicles, boats, or RVs, and an expansive backyard oasis. The outdoor space is impeccable, with lush landscaping, ambient lighting, and an efficient irrigation system. A paver patio, enhanced pool area, and charming gazebo create the perfect setting for serene evenings or outdoor entertaining. A detailed list of upgrades and warranties s available in the documents. Schedule your private showing today to experience a haven of cozy, modern living at its finest.

26720 N 156th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,285,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,633 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773995
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Tucked in off the main roads sits this beautifully maintained home on 2.26+ acres w/ lush desert foliage. So many flora colors & different plants feels like a desert oasis. Bring your toys & horses & enjoy the temperature-controlled man cave/shop/extra garage, 2-stall mare motel w/ good sized arena. Lots of room to give you extra privacy & room to add more features. Relax on the patio & enjoy the peacefulness of the desert, watch the sunrise over Four Peaks & take a dip in the gated pebble tec pool w/ waterfall for that unmatched AZ experience. Great open kitchen w/ plenty of room for the chef to entertain guests. Generous cabinets/countertop space & eat-in kitchen along w/ a nicely sized formal dining space. A final bonus: a timed-irrigation raised bed layout for that gardener who.... loves home-grown vegetables & flowers. If you're looking for a spacious desert retreat that's also very quiet & private, this one is a must-see.

4710 N 65th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,285,000 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Phoenician 2 2nd Amd, Scottsdale
New
$1,285,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,630 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6788121
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This is a gorgeous 2 BR/2 BA luxury Villa in Phoenician East. Located on the Phoenician golf course, you'll enjoy spectacular views of the renowned Camelback Mountain. The residence features soaring 12' ceilings, fireplace, large back patio with gate to the golf course. The two master suites have their own bathrooms and large walk-in closets. The kitchen features upgraded Jenn Air Appliances. This is a perfect home for enjoying a lock and leave life. This ideal ultra convenient location is near world class shopping at Scottsdale Fashion Square. Plus, dozens of dining options from fine dining to casual dining spots within a 2 mile radius.

30407 N 54th Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,285,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,884 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6686219
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This luxury Toll Brothers home in the highly sought after gated community of Montevista in Cave Creek is just a short walk from the community park, with sport courts and a children's playground! An exquisite 5 bdrm, 3.5 bath residence with professionally designed landscaping, Travertine pathways & a grand courtyard entry! The turreted entry opens to the formal dining room & large media room with a 135-inch movie screen. The core of the home lies in the spacious great room which provides gorgeous backyard views and ample space for all social gatherings. The chef's kitchen is warm and welcoming and features stainless steel appliances, granite counters, dining area, breakfast bar, and a convenient desk area for studying or office work. The split primary suite is located downstairs and is a retreat that boasts soft carpet, a lavish ensuite w/dual vanities, large 6-ft soaking tub, oversized shower, and a spacious walk-in closet. Two additional bedrooms are also downstairs, currently being used as offices, and share an updated Jack-and-Jill bathroom. That's not all! There are two more bedrooms and another updated bathroom upstairs, with a cozy loft area. That backyard oasis is a dream, featuring a refreshing 8-ft deep Pebble Tec pool with water feature, paved covered patio and low maintenance landscaping, including mature citrus trees! Close to highly rated Cave Creek schools and short drive to shopping/dining in Old Town Cave Creek and Carefree to the north and Desert Ridge Marketplace to the south.

22752 S 226th Place Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,285,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
4,225 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6733802
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Elegance Meets Opulence: A Must-See Gem! Step into the epitome of luxury living with this architectural marvel. Beyond being a house, it's a sanctuary promising an elevated lifestyle filled with comfort and convenience. Here are some standout features: Designed Landscaping: Meticulously landscaped surroundings set the tone for opulence. Natural-Stone Covered Backyard Patio: Entertain or unwind in your private oasis. Big Pool with Water Features: Dive into crystal-clear waters with enchanting water features. Gazebo with Outdoor Furniture: Relax in the shade, surrounded by elegant outdoor furniture. Whole-House Six-Zone Audio System: Rich music flows seamlessly throughout. 13kW Tesla Solar System with Four Power Walls: Sustainable energy backup keeps you powered. 3-Car Air-Conditioned Garage with Level 2 Tesla EV Charger: Ideal for car enthusiasts. 16-Camera Video Security System: Comprehensive security for peace of mind. Home Security Alarm System: Ensures safety for you and your loved ones. Fireplace: Cozy up by the warm glow, unmatched in comfort. This masterpiece caters to every aspect of modern living.

36460 N Secret Garden Path San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$1,285,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,658 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6705640
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Rare and very desirable Cordoba floor plan with 3 bedroom suites plus powder room, separate office AND a gorgeous golf course lot! Light and bright open great room concept with views of the 6th tee! Enter through custom iron front door into this beautiful home, with light wood floors in the main rooms, shutters , and cozy fireplace for those chilly Arizona winters! The dream kitchen offers B/I Monogram appliances, with elec cooktop that could easily convert to gas and huge W/I pantry!! Light stone counters with subway tile and light cabinets make this home a canvas to add your own color accents and style! The main bath has double sinks, a walk in shower, separate oval tub and large walk in closet. Location, view and floor plan make this one all the best of the Encanterra lifestyle!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.